Governor expresses commitment to bring more jobs to families of Kentucky

Frankfort, KY: Governor Ernie Fletcher reiterated his top priority of growing our economy and bringing new jobs to the families of Kentucky after new monthly unemployment rates revealed promising news of economic growth for the Commonwealth.

The Office of Employment and training, an agency of the Education Cabinet, reported today that in the month of September, unemployment in Kentucky fell to its lowest rate of the entire year and lowest level since 2001. Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 4.6 percent in September.

“I am pleased that the Commonwealth’s unemployment rate has, for the first time since 2001, dipped below the 5 percent level. This is a significant economic development achievement,” stated Governor Fletcher. “I am committed to restoring hope to all Kentuckians through the creation of new jobs and opportunities all across the Commonwealth. By creating jobs and economic prosperity, we make Kentucky a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is nearly one full percentage point lower than the national rate, which remained at 5.4 percent from August to September. Furthermore, Kentucky’s unemployment rate of 4.6 percent in September was significantly below the 6.2 percent rate recorded in September 2003.

“The low unemployment rate proves that Kentucky truly is open for business,” added Governor Fletcher. “The vision of my administration is to keep our best and brightest working and living in Kentucky and attract more talent to the state; and I am fully committed to building the Commonwealth’s economy.

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For more information about Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate, please contact Kim Saylor Brannock in the Office of Employment and Training at (502) 564-6606.